As the most recorded drummer in history – and that’s a statistical fact as opposed to simple boasting – and Quincy Jones’ go-to groover, John Robinson has a lot of stories to tell. Having stated “I’ve a got a few more years of drumming left; and maybe I still can surprise people” in the interview we did a decade ago, he’s still very much active – and keeps on surprising not only those who knows JR’s work with Michael Jackson, Barbra Streisand and other top-notch artists but also people who listen to the likes of DAFT PUNK. So it’s about time the legendary musician published an autobiography, and this is what he’s doing in October 1st.
King Of Groove
The veteran’s tome, titled “King Of Groove” and spanning his 50-year-long career, covers a lot of previously hidden ground, such as behind-the-scenes look at the “We Are The World” session to highlight the instrumental effort which recent documentary on the event skipped, or the secrets of playing for David Foster and other prominent composers. Of course, John’s emotional core is no less alluring, as one would assume it takes a lot of soul power and perseverance to get where Robinson has been for most of his life, and the drummer’s down-to-earth approach to his art and sense of humor is just as arresting. That’s what other performers look for in him.
As JR noted, “I give them confidence, support and security! They know that the groove is always going to be right and I’m not going to screw up and that I’m going to push them and it’s not just going to be a routine show, that I’m going to kick their ass. That’s what I’m going to do, and maybe that’s what it is. I’m very much a chameleon kind of drummer: I can play anything, except for Scandinavian speed metal, as I like to see girls’ asses moving when I play.” So yes, it’s going to be a riveting read.
